ADC Accuses Abuja Venues of Denying Convention Access Amid Political Pressure

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has expressed serious concerns regarding what it calls the repeated and “shameful” denial of venues for its upcoming national convention in Abuja. Kola Ologbondiyan, the chairman of the party’s media and publicity sub-committee for the convention, voiced these concerns during an appearance on Arise Television’s Morning Show on Tuesday. He detailed the difficulties the party has encountered in securing an appropriate venue, recounting a specific incident where party officials were invited to inspect an event center in Mabushi, Abuja, only to be turned away upon arrival.

Ologbondiyan characterized the situation as unusual, suggesting that political pressure may be influencing these repeated denials, especially considering that the country is not currently in an election period. He stated, “Let me tell you what the ADC has passed through in the last few days in respect of venue is shameful. That’s just how to put it: very shameful.” He provided an example of the challenges faced, explaining that while the party was in Garki, they received a call about an event center in Mabushi. However, by the time they arrived, they were informed that the venue was unavailable due to another event requiring two days of preparation, which coincided with the ADC’s request.

Although Ologbondiyan refrained from naming specific venues or hotels that the party approached, he expressed confusion over the situation. He noted that it is not yet election season and questioned why those in government, including 36 governors and the FCT Minister, with significant financial resources, should feel so “panicky.” The ADC’s ongoing struggle to secure a venue for its national convention highlights broader concerns about political interference and the challenges faced by opposition parties in Nigeria. As the party continues its search for a suitable location, this incident underscores the need for transparency and fairness in the political process, ensuring that all parties have equal opportunities to conduct their activities without undue hindrance.